If the terror of the COVID-19 pandemic was not enough, the Influenza H1N1 or Swine Flu has made a comeback this year, hitting the Mumbai circle- Thane, Raigad, and Palghar districts, the hardest. This year's city H1N1 tally has crossed the three-year high, reporting 66 cases so far.

In order to curb the spread of the Swine Flu, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has advised people from high-risk groups to approach doctors in case they develop any symptoms like chest pains and breathlessness.

Swine Flu, as the name suggests, is a respiratory disease caused by the H1N1 variant of a virus called influenza, found in pigs. The primary symptoms of the flu are sore throat, cough, running nose, fever, body ache, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea.

People with comorbidities, older than 65 years of age, and young children are at a higher risk of getting infected by the virus. Reportedly, 62 cases were reported this month and two patients have lost their lives so far. Additionally, the number of cases reported in Pune, Nashik, and Palghar was 23, 17, and 22, respectively.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor as soon as possible. To protect yourself from the H1N1 flu outburst, follow these basic preventive measures like frequently washing your hands or using sanitizers, wearing mask, keeping an arm’s length distance in public, using a handkerchief or tissue to cover your nose and mouth, etc.

Call 1916, our central 24x7 BMC helpline number in case of any emergencies.